The shortage of elementary school teachers in Palm Beach and Broward counties is growing more urgent, with thousands more needed over the next five years. Florida Atlantic University has long ranked as the chief provider of public school teachers to both counties, and now FAU’s role is undergoing dramatic expansion. The state of Florida has just awarded the university $4.3 million to establish a Center of Excellence for Elementary Teacher Preparation. This important initiative is a collaborative effort by the College of Education, the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College, Learning Sciences International, the New Teacher Center and the Palm Beach County and Broward County school districts.

The Center will develop a model K-5 teacher preparation program that will include practical experience as well as formal instruction in core subject areas such as mathematics, science, social studies and English language arts. The curriculum will align with employment requirements of the two participating school districts.

Congratulations to Dr. Valerie Bristor, dean of the College of Education; Dr. Barbara Ridener, chair of the Department of Teaching and Learning; and everyone else who helped obtain this important grant which will help us provide an optimal educational experience for the next generation of elementary school teachers in our area.